A Reflection By Robert A. Songer, NFWM Intern from University of Missouri Kansas City
Many Americans wrongly believe farm workers are unimportant. Social media, news, and even some friends and family spread this idea. They see farm workers as easily replaceable in today’s modern world. This belief leads consumers to think food magically appears in stores, ready to buy. It sets a false standard. Meanwhile, the absence of farm workers could lead to higher prices and scarcity.
Removing farm workers will raise store prices even though this goes against the new Administration promises. A study by American Progress, shows prices could jump 6% for produce alone. If farm worker numbers drop by over 10%, all prices could rise by another 6%. The biggest shock? Milk and dairy prices might double.
Another study by Center for Immigration Studies, warns of more price hikes. These include job losses, falling wages, and rising debt. The new administration’s deportation plans alone could cause this.
The new government’s border control promise could fuel inflation. Voters wanted lower prices. Now, they face the opposite. Higher costs, fewer products, or both. This grim future looms without support for farm workers. These issues are linked. We must protect farm workers. It is the right thing to do on every level. Let’s follow the National Field Workers Ministry and its partners because we all deserve economic, social and racial justice.